Tribute Speeches

Depending on the occasion, tribute speeches could be one of the most important type of speech.  Tribute speeches are meant to speak in high regards about a person or group.  The tribute speech that I am most familiar with is the eulogy.  I have probably been to about 30 funerals in my lifetime and have heard quite the variety of eulogies given.  In a time of grief, what someone else says about a loved one that has passed can either dig a bigger hole of depression, or help you celebrate the life they lived.  Careful consideration must be given to the eulogy speech in regards to the families desire for the atmosphere, the type of person the eulogy is about, and time limits.  Although death is always a tragedy, speaking about the fond memories, funny times, and special characteristics about the one who has passed can lighten the mood.  On the other hand, focusing on the sadness, the emptiness, and loneliness puts more emphasis on the tragedy and will only darken the mood.  I prefer to be at funerals and hear eulogies that hardly mention the tragedy of the death, but rather speak about the good that the individual accomplished and the positive impact he/she had on others.